Q: Tell me about NatureScape Broward, where you are the outreach coordinator.

When Kristin Jacobs (the former Broward mayor) became a county commissioner, she had a vision of creating NatureScape yards throughout Broward County. These yards could put back lost habitat, and eventually reconnect corridors for wildlife. If we began with native plants these species would fill in over time.

Q: You and Kristin Jacobs were recently honored at the Sawgrass Nature Center’s Top Hat & Tails Gala. What did that mean for you?

By honoring me they are honoring what the NatureScape program has done for the county, in all the certified yards and communities. The Sawgrass Nature Center gets birds and animals when they are injured. If we can teach people how to garden for wildlife, we can prevent some of those injuries.

Q: How many certified areas are there in Broward?

The county has 3,400 certified habitats — the most concentrated area in the country. And we are really not a large urban area- approximately 22 miles by 15 miles inland. What is amazing is the commitment from the residents here.

Q: You recently completed a study on migratory songbirds for the National Audubon Society—the Habitat Oasis for Migratory Songbirds, an initiative started by John Ogden, the former director of bird Conservation for Audubon of Florida, who died in 2012.

The purpose of this study was to determine which trees and shrubs are the most important sources of food for hungry songbirds as they stop over in our region during their long-distance migrations between summering and wintering ranges. The goal is to improve the quality of critical stopover habitat and develop regionally specific lists of bird-friendly native plants that can be used by government agencies, corporations and landowners.

Q: What should homeowners plant to feed and shelter visiting songbirds?

The top trees are live oak, native palms, wild tamarind, stranger fig, gumbo limbo and satin leaf. The top small trees or shrubs are stoppers, wild coffee, firebush, sweet acacia and wild lime.

Q: What can condo or apartment dwellers do?

Volunteer at one of our parks or nature centers, or get involved in beach cleanups or habitat restoration projects. We have year round opportunities to make a difference for wildlife in Broward. It’s all about learning where their talent can best serve wildlife.

Q: Do you have a favorite TV show?

I am not really crazy about TV. My favorite thing to do on weekends is sit outside in the early morning with my husband and wake up with the birds. That is the best show you can see.